Bible Verses About Tithing (KJV): How Scripture Guides Generous Business

Tithing has long been a cornerstone of Christian financial stewardship—but is it still relevant in today’s business world? Christian entrepreneurs around the globe are revisiting Scripture to understand how giving aligns with purpose, prosperity, and godly leadership. Let’s explore biblical tithing, its principles, and how it applies to your marketplace journey.
What Is Tithing? Biblical Definition & Origin
Before examining verses, we must understand what tithing means and how it began in Scripture. This foundation helps clarify its role in biblical faith and business strategy.
What does “tithe” mean in the Bible?
The word “tithe” comes from the Hebrew word maʿăśēr, meaning “a tenth.” Biblically, it referred to giving 10% of one’s agricultural produce, livestock, or income to honor God and support the Levites, temple services, and the poor.
“And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the LORD’S: it is holy unto the LORD.” – Leviticus 27:30 (KJV)
First examples of tithing in Scripture (Abraham, Jacob)
Abraham set the earliest example of tithing, giving a tenth to Melchizedek in Genesis 14:18–20. Jacob echoed this in Genesis 28:22, vowing a tenth to the Lord if He provided for him. These were voluntary, faith-based acts—not mandated by law.

Old Testament tithing laws and purpose
Under Mosaic law, tithing became an established practice with specific rules. It supported temple worship, provided for the Levites, and cared for the widows, orphans, and foreigners. It reinforced Israel’s dependence on God and commitment to justice.
Bible Verses on Tithing in the Old & New Testament
Let’s examine what the Bible says about tithes and offerings—both from the Law and the lens of grace and generosity in the New Testament.
Key Old Testament scriptures on tithing
Besides Leviticus 27:30, here are other foundational verses on tithing:
“Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.” – Malachi 3:10 (KJV)
Malachi 3:10 KJV: Meaning and implications
This popular verse is often cited in Christian giving. It reflects God’s invitation to trust Him with our resources. Though under an Old Covenant, the principle remains: honoring God unlocks divine provision and protection. Many Christian business owners share how this promise has transformed their finances when followed in faith. Learn how one CEO saw breakthrough after obeying this scripture.
New Testament verses on giving and generosity
While the New Testament doesn’t command tithing, it elevates generosity from obligation to willing, Spirit-led giving:
“Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith…” – Matthew 23:23 (KJV)
“Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7 (KJV)
What did Jesus say about tithing?
Jesus acknowledged tithing but cautioned against legalism. He highlighted heart-driven obedience. His teaching does not repeal tithing but redirects focus to generosity rooted in justice and love.
Tithing in the New Testament – Are Christians Required to Tithe?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions: must believers still tithe under grace? Let’s explore how the early church practiced giving.
Did Jesus mandate tithing under grace?
Jesus never commanded post-Cross tithing. Instead, His teachings emphasized surrender, stewardship, and Spirit-led generosity. The standard shifted from law to love. Yet, tithing remains a powerful spiritual habit when done with the right heart.
Understanding giving in the early church (Acts 4:32–35)
Early Christians gave radically—not only 10%, but all had things in common.
“Neither was there any among them that lacked… as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them… and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.” – Acts 4:34–35 (KJV)
Voluntary generosity vs. obligatory tithing
New Testament giving is marked by:
- Cheerfulness
- Proportion to blessing
- Supporting ministry and mission
Tithing was a starting point—not a ceiling. Consider how your business can reflect Kingdom generosity beyond obligation.
Reflect and apply: What giving looks like today
Prayerfully ask: Am I stewarding resources as led by the Spirit or managing based on fear? Whether giving 10% or more, letting God lead sustains both hearts and profits. Read more on what the Bible says about money.
Tithing in Business: Relevance for Christian Entrepreneurs
Faith-driven entrepreneurship calls for godly stewardship. Tithing ties your revenue to Kingdom purpose.
Marketplace stewardship and financial obedience
Honoring God with your company’s profit sends a message: God is the source. Christian entrepreneurs across Africa and beyond testify how returning the first portion to God unlocks sustainable growth. Explore how putting God first financially attracts favor.

Case study: How consistent tithing transformed a Christian-led startup
One Kenyan-led tech business began tithing systematically—even during loss quarters. Within a year, unexpected contracts and favorable tax rulings surfaced. Integrity opened doors that marketing never could. Dive into principles behind tithing and business growth.
Beyond the 10%: Spirit-led generosity in modern businesses
Generosity can look like:
- Funding missions from profit
- Hiring vulnerable populations
- Creating giving funds within the company
The question isn’t how little can I give—but how much can I trust God with?
How giving aligns with Kingdom values and purpose
Tithing aligns your work with worship. It’s not only about compliance, but obedience, generosity, and mission-anchored finance. Discover how honoring God with wealth unlocks purpose.
How to Apply Biblical Giving Principles in Your Business
The Word is a blueprint. Let’s make it practical by anchoring generosity in our operational and ethical frameworks.
Setting a tithing/giving plan for your company
- Decide a default startup tithe—perhaps 10% of net or gross profit
- Create a monthly or quarterly giving rhythm
- Designate Kingdom-aligned causes to support
Teaching generosity within your team culture
Instill giving values by:
- Sharing testimonies of God’s provision
- Offering giving education/devotionals at work
- Encouraging departments to champion social impact projects

Navigating profit, margins, and mission with biblical wisdom
Faith-led businesses blend margin with mission. Founders must lead with discernment, humility, and consistent surrender. Continue learning from biblical commands for Christian entrepreneurs.
Final Encouragement: Tithing as Worship and Witness
Stewardship leads to spiritual growth
Every tithe is a declaration: God, You own it all. Giving trains our heart, dethrones money as a master, and positions us for supernatural increase.
Generosity as a testimony in your industry
When Christian business leaders give faithfully, it reflects trust in the unseen. Your generosity becomes light in a marketplace darkened by greed, scarcity, or corruption.
Action step: Commit your business finances to God through prayer
Right now, dedicate your next quarter’s revenue to God. Invite Him into budgeting, investments, and operations.
Recommended Reading
- Tithing and Business Growth Principles
- When You Pay Tithes—Business Turnaround Stories
- Putting God First in Finances Through Tithing
- Is Tithing About Money or Obedience?
- Biblical Commands for Christian Entrepreneurs
FAQ
- Where in the Bible does it talk about tithing?
The Bible discusses tithing in Genesis 14:20, Leviticus 27:30, Malachi 3:10, and Matthew 23:23 among others. These verses highlight both the law-based tithing in the Old Testament and a heart of generosity in the New. - Is tithing still required for Christians?
While the New Testament doesn’t mandate tithing, it encourages Spirit-led generosity. Giving remains a vital practice, but it’s now motivated by grace rather than obligation. - What did Jesus say about tithing?
Jesus affirmed tithing in Matthew 23:23 but emphasized justice, mercy, and faith as higher matters. He pointed to the importance of heart posture over mere rule-following. - What’s the biblical meaning of giving 10 percent?
Giving 10 percent (a tithe) symbolized returning the first portion to God, trusting Him as Provider. It was seen as holy and marked gratitude, obedience, and worship.
